Media Contact: Melissa Madison, Executive Director
Phone: (952) 405-9425
Email: Melissa@494corridor.org
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (Oct. 7, 2025) – Commuter Services today announced its 2025 Discover Your New Commute campaign, a two-month push (Oct. 1-Nov. 30) to help workers along the I-494 corridor try stress-free, sustainable alternatives to driving alone, including carpooling, vanpooling, transit, biking, walking, or working from home.
“With I-494 congested most of the day, this campaign provides a pain-free way to try something other than driving alone. A small step can make a big difference when thousands of commuters take it together,” said Melissa Madison, Executive Director of Commuter Services.
Construction along I-494 continues to slow traffic. Fewer solo trips mean faster travel times, lower stress, and cleaner air across the metro.
Commuters who visit commuter.org and pledge to try a new way of getting to work this fall will be entered to win prizes, including an electric bike. “Trying something new isn’t just about prizes,” Madison said. “It’s about reclaiming your time and finding a better way to travel.”
“On average, a single commuters annual driving can emit nearly four tons of greenhouse gases the equivalent of 768 mature trees,” said Michelle Leonard, Communications Outreach Manager. “No two peoples commutes are the same. We don’t promote one mode over another; we help people find what works for them.” Leonard also pointed to Metro Transits Metro micro service, which provides door-to-door options for previously underserved neighborhoods.
“For employers, most commute programs do not cost anything and require minimal staff time – Commuter Services does the legwork,” said Kate Meredith, Vice President of Commuter Services. “Supporting sustainable ways of getting to work helps reduce stress and boosts productivity.”
“We’re not asking anyone to sell their vehicle,” Madison said. “What we find is that several people end up making the alternative choice five days a week, and it often starts by trying it once.”
Commuters, employers, and residents along the I-494 corridor are encouraged to visit commuter.org to make a pledge, access trip-planning and ride-matching resources, and discover their new commute this fall.
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About the I-494 Corridor Commission
The I-494 Corridor Commission works to reduce congestion, improve mobility, and expand sustainable transportation options along Minnesota’s busiest commuter corridor. Through its Commuter Services program, the commission offers free resources, trip planning assistance, and outreach to individuals, employers, and communities. Each year, its initiatives help more than 5,500 commuters switch from driving alone to alternative modes of transportation, reducing emissions and improving quality of life.
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